On Thursday 18th May, Honorable Elodio Aragon Jr. launched his Countrywide Police Formations Tour. This was seen as a necessary exercise by Honorable Aragon in order to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the department. In order to make informed decisions at the ministry level, Aragon has decided to take a comprehensive tour of all the police formations and facilities and to meet personally with every member of the Police Department.

The first leg of the tour took Aragon to the Orange Walk District formation. It is only fitting that being from Orange Walk Town himself, he visits this formation first. In the morning of 18th May, a Guard of honor was mounted by members of the Orange Walk Police Station and they were inspected by Honorable Aragon.

After the inspection a meeting with the general staff was held at the station’s conference room. “I am committed to seeing this department transform into one of the most professional organizations in this country, I will do my part but you all must also do your part to ensure that this becomes a reality.” Remarked Aragon. He continued by saying, “I urge you to do what is right. If you are doing the wrong thing I ask that you stop. We cannot make Belize crime free if we have Police Officers doing the wrong thing.”

The floor was then opened for a candid discussion during which several concerns were raised including the need for equipment and better working conditions for officers working at substations which are currently in disrepair. Honorable Aragon took notes and pledged to do everything within his power to see that every issue is addressed.

A tour of the police station followed and ways to improve the current building were discussed. On Friday 19th May the tour continued with visits to the police substations. The structural integrity of all building were assessed and some were found to be faulty. The Minister has committed to repair three substations which in all cases were ceiling damage due to bat infestation. The tour continues next week when the second leg will take the Minister to the Corozal District.